Overview & Reviews

The Chevrolet Monte Carlo traces its roots back several decades to the height of the muscle car era, when Chevy sought to entice customers with a sporty, upscale rear-drive V8 coupe that provided a balance of performance and comfort in a stylish package. From those early years -- which included big-block SS (Super Sport) editions -- the Monte Carlo evolved toward a more luxury-oriented persona, saw significant downsizing (to optimize fuel efficiency) and soldiered on as a popular rear-drive sport coupe until 1988, when it was replaced by the Lumina coupe.

Following a lengthy hiatus, the Chevy Monte Carlo emerged once again in 1995. However, by then it had been softened and saddled with a carryover front-wheel-drive platform and V6 engines that barely hinted at the performance of years gone by. It was, in essence, a Lumina coupe.

The current-generation Chevrolet Monte Carlo coupe debuted in 2000 with more distinctive styling and updated underpinnings from the Impala sedan to better meet the needs of today's buyers. Significant changes in 2006 helped the Monte Carlo come nearly full circle back to its original mission with sportier chassis tuning, improved driving dynamics and more power in SS models, while freshened interior and exterior styling offer a sculpted and pleasing contemporary appearance. In spite of those updates, sales remained sluggish and the Monte Carlo was gone after the 2007 model year.

Although much improved in its latter years -- including a return to available V8 power in SS trim -- we feel that other performance sport coupe competitors like the Mustang offer a more satisfying choice as long as you don't mind giving up some interior room. In reviews, our editors felt that the Monte Carlo was primarily a comfortable cruiser more at home in the fast lane than on twisty mountain roads. If the latter is your preferred driving environment, you may want to consider other brighter, more focused alternatives.

Most Recent Chevrolet Monte Carlo

The Chevrolet Monte Carlo received a major update for the 2006 model year and it remained a midsize two-door coupe that came in three trim levels: the base but reasonably well-equipped LS, the more upscale LT and the performance-oriented SS. Under the hood of LS and LT models is a 3.5-liter V6 with 211 horsepower, while the SS boasts a responsive 5.3-liter V8 with 303 hp. Impressive numbers, yes. But they would've been even better if they powered the rear wheels like Monte Carlos of years ago, especially in the case of the SS. A front-engine/rear-drive layout is typically preferable for optimum weight distribution and balanced handling, especially when the engine is a heavy V8.

Overall, this version of the Chevy Monte Carlo, which only lasted through '07, was a spacious sport coupe that offered buyers a reasonably good comfort/performance trade-off for a relatively low sticker price. Although quick in a straight line, the V8-equipped Monte Carlo SS suffers from a nose-heavy feel. If quick reflexes are on your wish list instead and you don't mind tighter passenger quarters, we suggest you consider a smaller but more nimble sport coupe, such as an Acura RSX or Mitsubishi Eclipse.

Past Chevrolet Monte Carlo Models

Used-car shoppers interested in a late-model Monte Carlo will likely encounter the previous-generation model, which was available from the 2000-'05 model years. Based on the then-new Impala platform and wearing fresh, distinctive (some said ugly) sheet metal with heritage styling cues, the Monte Carlo was originally offered as an LS with a 3.4-liter V6 engine making 180 hp, or an SS with a 200-hp 3.8-liter V6. A driver side airbag -- as well as traction control and OnStar on SS models -- was added as standard safety equipment in 2001, and all models received four-wheel disc brakes, traction control and remote keyless entry in 2003. In a bid to boost its performance image, Chevrolet added a 240-hp supercharged engine option for the SS in 2004.

Previous to this model, there was the Lumina-based Monte Carlo, which became available for the 1995 model year in LS or Z34 sport trim levels. Those wishing to hit the fast lane are advised to stick with the 210-hp 3.4-liter twincam V6 in the Z34. Detail improvements carried the Monte Carlo through the next several years, though only the most eagle-eyed used-car shoppers are likely to appreciate the differences.

User Reviews:

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  Awesome Car - 2006 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By Your Mom - September 12 - 6:06 pm

  Fast and efficient. The D.O.D is the best feature. It gives you power when you need it and fuel efficiency when you reach desired speed. It corners like a dream and looks sexy.

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  Love my car - 2005 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By Happy driver - September 12 - 10:13 am

  Fell in love with the look of my car months ago. When it came time to buy a new car, I test drove the Monte Carlo..... It is pure joy to drive. Handling was great, pickup was awesome, stereo was wonderful. While driving, even at high speeds, it is very quiet. No road or engine noise. Driving to and from work is fun.

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  Love my Monte! - 2006 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By D and M Ahart - September 3 - 8:40 am

  We have had this car 2 years now and its been a pleasure to own and drive. Only problem weve had with it is the Tire Pressure Monitors malfunctioning. Otherwise, nop problems. A very solid feel this car has. It hugs the road and handles great in all weather conditions. The 3.9L engine provides plenty of power on the highways, which is our main type of driving. The fuel economy isnt all that bad, but i didnt purchase this car with fuel economy in mind. For what we paid for it, we got much more car than we would have gotten from any Japanese import of the same price. I love my Monte, and its sad to see the MC nameplate disappear, probably for good, unfortunately.

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  My Monaco - 2006 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By TexasEx@ Austin - August 29 - 3:36 am

  After driving Dodge trucks for years, this was an amazing transformation. I have always liked Chevrolet and their brand. This is a Luxury Sport Coupe and there are just so few anymore. I like the feel, the performance and the comfort. All this coupled with the mileage, I am extremely happy with my purchase. Oh, and Chevys after-sale support is awesome!

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  A Very Good Car - 2005 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By Brian - August 22 - 5:46 am

  Chevy did a nice job with this car. Its comfortable and stylish (the ladies love it - NO JOKE!). Acceleration and gas mileage with the 3.4L V6 arent this engines strong suits, but its relatively smooth and works well with the 4-speed auto trans. Steering is slightly overassisted, but handling is decent. After nearly 12,000 miles, no problems, except for slightly warped brake rotors which Ill have checked and probably replaced under warranty soon. The interior could stand more usable storage space up front, but overall, no complaints. Great sound from CD stereo.

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  OK car - 1999 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By Shawn - August 19 - 11:23 pm

  I have had my Monte Carlo for almost two years. Pretty good overall car. Its very reliable and I havent had too many problems with it. However, the gas mileage is terrible in the city, I average about 18 mpg, much better on the road though. The hinge on the glove compartment broke, and braking in the rain was bad until I had the front fender liners trimmed. Overall I have been happy with the performance, never lost a race with any high-schoolers at stop lights with their Civics and Eclipses!

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  Short Circuit - 2001 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By Icarus - August 8 - 10:00 am

  I loved the way the car drove, but all other experiences with my Monte Carlo were terrible. Im 6 2" and the car did not fit me; my fault, I test drove the vehicle. Yet, I have had electrical problems of every sort. After six months, my airbag indicator light would come on as I was driving down the road. No problems for another six months and then turn signals began to short out. I thought it was a fuse but they went on and off. I am now experiencing the same problem with the drivers side window. The Chevy dealers I went to were rude and unwilling to help. I think my experiences with Chevy are over.

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  Great fun to drive car with comfort. - 2005 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By C. J. - August 7 - 12:10 am

  This car is better than the 2000 Monte Carlo. The gas mileage is about the same (34) on trips, but the comfort is much better. XM radio is great along with the OnStar and telephone. Great eye catching vehicle.

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  Red SS - 2003 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By labelmon - July 27 - 2:00 am

  We werent really that serious to trade,....but we spent five years in our Honda CR-V EX, and had our belly full of our little under powered "sport cute". This good looking Yankee made it a MUST GET. What a car / What a deal! The U.S. auto mfgs. are eager to put you behind the wheel. THERE IS ABSOLUTLY NO COMPARISON TO OUR 03 RED MONTE SS.........WOW WHAT A CAR! Ours is loaded ( heated leather seats, "OnStar", moon roof, & power everything ) and that 3.8L 200 hp V six........Knarley dude! Some words to the wise, "SEE THE USA IN A CHEVROLET !"

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  Good but could be great - 2003 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By Leigh Z - July 22 - 10:00 am

  After spending a month with the car, I am beginning to really like the car. For everyday commuting it is very comfortable and gets very good gas mileage. What it isnt is a performance beast that makes me want to take it out for the hell of it and just cruise around. For a SS moniker car I expect it to outperform the average sedan from Japan. Sadly, it just does not cut it under the hood.